NHL DraftBuzz

DraftBuzz is a scouting platform designed to provide viewers with insight on the NHL Entry Draft. Coverage includes in depth 2007 draft player profiles, rankings, mock drafts, rumors, and real time commentary for the actual draft. The most fitting quote comes from previous draft ranking service, younggunshockey.com, "Remember, there is no such thing as a weak draft just weak scouting."

Saturday, June 23, 2007

First, DraftBuzz would like to apologize to everyone who expected real time commentary on the draft. Unexpected heavy traffic hindered our ability to post and modify new additions to the website and as a result we could not comment on the draft as originally planned.

We are truly sorry, and again apologize to everyone.

Second, DraftBuzz would also like to thank everyone who sent compliments, comments, and/or kept us busy with draft chat through e-mail, all linked websites and bloggers who put trust in our ability to sustain a reliable scouting site, and all the committed "DraftBuzz" followers who helped make this site a joy to watch grow!

Speaking of growth, draftbuzz.blogspot.com is moving to an official .com in the near future (www.draftbuzzhockey.com) and is contemplating releasing a complete 2008 Draft Guide Magazine (next May/June) and possibly even a Mid-Season/Half year report (January).

We hope everyone enjoyed the draft as much as we did, and is looking forward to the 2007-2008 prospect tracking season! DraftBuzz will take a much needed respite from the heavy work of the past month or so, but will be back shortly (mid-July at the latest) with an exciting look at next year's draft eligibles.

Sunday, June 17, 2007

31.Buffalo Sabres - BrettMacLean- Wing - Oshawa Generals~With their first selection coming this late in the early second round, Buffalo jumps on one of the draft's biggest goal scorers and possible BPA with the lumbering winger from Oshawa. MacLean is a pretty solid guy at 6'1'' 200 lbs, and Buffalo will look forward to introducing a young power winger who hopefully follows the same footsteps as Vanek. They have pretty good defensive prospect depth, allowing them to pass on Tommy Cross who was the other consideration at this pick.*32. Phoenix - PK Subban - Defense - Belleville Bulls~After selecting two exciting scoring wingers in Van Riemsdyk and Hjalmarsson, Phoenix opts to add another offensive threat this time on the blueline. Subban has great individual talents like shooting, skating, and puckhandling, and offers the Coyotes a skilled defender to grow alongside more brawny, less dynamic defenders like Jones, Summers, and Stephenson. Phoenix could look at the all round Swede, Nichlas Torp here as well.*33. Vancouver Canucks - Brandon Sutter - Center - Red DeerRebels~After a hard decision to go with MacMillan at the 25th overall, Vancouver is rewarded with great timing and forecasting. Adding MacMillan stopped the bleeding for the Canucks who had abysmal prospect depth down the middle, and Sutter now helps strengthen that concern even more. Sutter is a bit more skilled than MacMillan with softer hands and greater playmaking and anticipation, but he's a bigger risk. If he puts his tools all together, we could see a 6'3'' 200+ two way Canuck with underrated hands a few years down the line. Patrick White could be a second option to Sutter.*34. Washington Capitals - Riley Nash - Center - Salmon Arm Silverbacks~With another second round pick at their hands at 46, Washington does not hesitate to add another forward with skill. Nash is just the guy they wanted; he will offer the Capitals a slick playmaker to hopefully one day place in the middle of Semin and/or Cherepanov. Nash will need some time to establish himself and grow into his tall, lanky frame at Cornell but with Backstrom, Nash, and Gillies, Washington looks to have a healthy 1-2-3 punch down the middle. Nichlas Torp could be an intriguing option to add a steady, two way blueliner to incongruent group of defense prospects.*35. Chicago Blackhawks - Dana Tyrell - Left Wing - Prince George Cougars~With a loaded prospect pool that hosts a lot of personalities, one personality that should help bring them altogether will come from Dana Tyrell. Tyrell is a heart and soul competitor on the ice who has unmatched dedication to fitness off the ice. He has great character, and most importantly great speed to keep up with future Blackhawk stars. Tyrell looks like he will at the very least have the complimentary speed and hands to keep up with talented 2nd/3rd line teammates like Bolland/Skille. With great center and right wing prospect depth, Tyrell will help the light left side greatly. Chicago could entertain selecting the best goaltender in the draft in Jeremy Smith or big hard working winger like Spencer Machacek.*36. Edmonton - Ruslan Bashkirov - Wing - Quebec Remparts~Edmonton is up again and this time has confidence in their defensive depth thanks to the previous selections of Kevin Shattenkirk and Kevin Marshall. Because of this, the Oilers will elect to pass on Tommy Cross and take the strong Russian who has a beautiful release. His shot is quick and tricky, but he needs to improve his acceleration to better use it in all areas of the ice. Edmonton needs some goal scorers from the wing especially so Bashkirov could be a welcomed selection here at 36.*37. Columbus - Patrick White - Center - Grand Rapids HS~After feeling a little guilty about passing over Sam Gagner for the blossoming yank defenseman McDonagh, a gift by the name of Patrick White falls into their laps in the second round. White is a great value pick this late and gives Columbus another forward to look forward to. He is a goal scorer with solid skating and puck skills. As for other options, Columbus could add another defenseman in Tommy Cross.*38. Boston Bruins - Tommy Cross - Defense - USHSE~The 2007 draft has shaped up to be one run by the best player available philosophy after stealing Sam Gagner for the Bruins. Playing for Westminster, Boston has likely had a good look at the all around, big American blueliner. Just acquiring a hulk in McQuaid may make the Bruins look to another style of blueliner, possibly Valach or Brennan, but they cannot pass on Cross here. The problem of having an abundance of big, steady but not too offensive blueliners (Alberts, Stuart, McQuaid) will sort itself out over time, and the Bruins are just pleased to see Cross slip to them.*39. St. Louis Blues - Nichlas Torp - Defense - Sweden Jr.~Whoever said this was a weak draft must have been jealous that STL owned four picks within the first 40 selections. STL has hit every area of weakness skater wise in their system with the selections of Blum, Mayorov, Legein, and now Torp. Torp is one of those savvy Swedish blueliners who can do everything well; he is a leader as well and exudes a calming influence when he's on the ice. STL now has built a defensive wall with Johnson, Blum, and Torp to place around Schwarz/Bishop.*40. Florida – Jeremy Smith - Goaltender - Plymouth Whalers~After taking the athletic defender Petrecki with their 10th overall selection, Florida gets themselves a bluechip goaltender prospect - or atleast the number one rated overall in the draft. With a goalie like Smith now in their system, Florida can relax a little and watch him develop. Another defender like Ian Cole could be a decent option instead.*41. San Jose Sharks - Alex Killorn - Center - USHSE~San Jose is without a first round pick this year, so they will most likely wait for the best player available to fall to them at their second rounder. Talent wise the draft becomes a bit fuzzy starting at this point. Accordingly, we see the big, powerful center Killorn being a great option for the Sharks at their first pick in the 2007 entry draft. He offers a big body, with a great shot and good raw upside. Whether he plays another year of HS Prep or jumps to the USHL next year remains to be seen, but he will play for Harvard in 2008.*42. Minnesota Wild - Ted Ruth - Defense - NTDP~With pretty good forward depth, Minnesota goes the route of a defenseman again. With the last pick of Hickey, the Wild added a smooth two way blueliner who leans to being more offensive. With the selection of Ruth, they get a stay at home defenseman who prides himself on taking care of the play in his own zone. Ruth is a very simple player and gives Minnesota a defense prospect they can count on unlike Thelen for instance. Although it is unclear how much his offensive game will improve, Ruth is a good bet to make it as a reliable bottom pairing defenseman.*43. Montreal Canadiens - Juraj Valach - Defense - Tri City Americans~Montreal shoots for the stars again with the selection another project pick who is a monstrous puck mover in Juraj Valach. They definately are not scared to roll the dice on the slick puckhandler and opportunistic Czech import who played well this past season in the Dub. Montreal needs to add an offensive defenseman this coming draft, so they could entertain players like Cole and Brennan here as well.*44. Toronto Maple Leafs - Joakim Andersson - Center - Frolunda~With their second round pick, Toronto adds a center to a forward prospect pool that needs another top end talent or two. Already having drafted Ellerby, the Leafs are happy to see the effective two way centerman still on the board. Andersson is a complete player if you do not care about his skating, but his quickness, agility, and straight line skating need some serious work. He is in the same boat as players like MacLean and Bonino, but with some hard work the Leafs hope he overcomes this problem. If for some reason the Leafs see Jarkko Immonen in Andersson, who was easily let go in a trade for Brian Leetch and is a similar subpar skater with good skill, they may take the route of slick center Galiardi or power winger Tangradi.*45. Colorado Avalanche - T.J. Galiardi - Center - Dartmouth~Pick number 45 starts the second round fun for the Avalanche as they have three second rounders in total. Thus, they jump on the chance to draft T.J. Galiardi, who is a fluid skater and constant offensive presence, feeling some heat from Tampa Bay who looks to need any solid forward with a pulse. Just like Perron, Galiardi is an '88 and a year older than most of the prospects available. However, Colorado likes the fact that he played with a Colorado draft pick in David Jones, and likes Galiardi's ability to create offense.*46. Washington Capitals - Nick Ross - Defense - Regina Pats~47. Tampa Bay Lightning - Zach Torquato - Center - Saginaw Spirit~48. New York Rangers - Kent Patterson - Goalie - Cedar Rapids Rough Riders~49. Colorado Avalanche - Joel Gistedt - Goalie - Sweden Jr.~50. Dallas Stars - Olivier Fortier - Center - Rimouski Oceanic~51. Pittsburgh Penguins - Maxime Gratchev - Left Wing - Rimouski Oceanic~52. Los Angeles Kings - Brendan Smith - Defense - St. Michael's Buzzers~53. Columbus Blue Jackets - Ian Cole - Defense - NTDP~54. Nashville Predators - Nico Sacchetti - Center - USHSW~55. Colorado Avalanche - Drew MacKenzie - Defense - USHSE~56. Vancouver Canucks - Jim O'Brien - Center/Defense - Minnesota Gophers~57. New Jersey Devils - Drayson Bowman - Left Wing - Spokane Chiefs~58. Florida Panthers- T.J. Brennan- Defense - St. John's~59. Buffalo Sabres - Josh Kidd - Defense - Erie Otters~60. Ottawa Senators - Kurtis Mucha - Goalie - Portland Winterhawks~61. Vancouver Canucks - Aaron Palushaj - Right Wing - Des Moines Buccaneers

**Commentary:With the 1st overall selection of Patrick Kane in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Chicago provides Toews with a RW thriller to set up for many years. With this pick, the Blackhawks focus intently on getting a legitimate scoring winger in their system to supplement their more rounded, lower ceiling prospects such as Bolland, Brouwer, Davis, and Bertram. Chicago looks to be on the right track with a forward roster that could feature Ruutu, Toews, Kane, and Skille in the near future.

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Option # 2 - Kyle Turris – Double T’s down the middle would be a scary sight for those in the Central Division. Chicago may be best off getting themselves a dynamite winger for Toews, but Turris’ all around skillset and smarts make him a contender for the top choice regardless.

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Option # 3 - Alexei Cherepanov - Despite what Chicago has said in the press, (Kane, Turris, JVR as top three), we think Alexei has a chance to challenge for the first overall as he offers a similar goal scoring prowess as Kane does. DraftBuzz sees him as a quality alternative option for the top choice, as he is bigger than Kane and a little more instinctive in his efforts to light the lamp. The impending journey to get Cherepanov across the pond, along with the everpresent cliche that Russian's are not coachable (see Zherdev), and Chicago's terrible past experiences with Russian forwards (Vorobiev & Yakubov), will be enough to sway CHI to choose the American dynamo from the OHL instead.

**Commentary:With the 2nd overall selection of Kyle Turris in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Philadephia injects a highly talented centerman into a system that lacks a forward with his blend of both skill and hockey smarts. The Flyer's have had recent success in introducing young, exciting forwards such as Scottie Upshall, Jeff Carter, and Mike Richards to the parent roster, along with adding imminent NHL'ers in prospects like Steve Downie and Claude Giroux through the past two draft's. Because of this they can select the raw, relatively unproven centerman from British Columbia and let him develop properly at Wisconsin.

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Option # 2 - James Van Riemsdyk – If these were the Flyer’s of the past, James Van Riemsdyk would most likely be our guess for the second overall with a package of size, speed, and skill their predecessors would drool over. However, Philadelphia now realizes size is not everything and proceeds with caution when dissecting James Van Riemsdyk’s tempting game. Instead, they go with the centerman who oozes a bit more skill, is smaller, and has uncanny hockey sense.

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Option # 3 - Jakub Voracek –If the Flyer’s are planting false information in the media with their alleged interest in Turris, we think Voracek and Van Riemsdyk would be head to head in the race for their selection. There is not much separating Voracek from JvR when looking at who the Flyer's may draft. But as silly as this may sound, we do believe Van Riemsdyk being North American and from the NE region of the US will vault him just a little higher than Voracek - assuming they think the two have similar potential.

**Commentary:With the 3rd overall selection of James Van Riemsdyk in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Phoenix shores up a huge deficit in their prospect pool: an elite goal scoring winger. With Mueller, Hanzal, and Wheeler all having success as centermen for their respective teams, Phoenix badly needs to insert a winger who loves to shoot. JVR’s biggest strength's are his quality release and ability to score big game goals. The Coyotes have many playmakers up front, so Van Riemsdyk is a great fit and are willing to wait for this tantalizing package of size, skill, and speed to develop and later hit the NHL ice with their sweater on.

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Option # 2 - Alexei Cherepanov – In all honesty, DraftBuzz feels Cherepanov is a better fit for Phoenix’ and their needs than JVR. Cherepanov is the most instinctive goal scorer in the draft, and this is exactly what Phoenix needs, but there are problems floating around that Phoenix may not want to be bothered with. All the small nuisances like the Russian transfer agreement and the malevolent rumor of Cherepanov’s uncoachability vault the yankee Van Riemsdyk ahead of the Russian sniper.

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Option # 3 - Sam Gagner - This third overall selection was our hardest pick yet because we believe Gagner deserves this spot, and maybe even more so than Cherepanov. Gagner is a safe prospect who does everything well and DraftBuzz thinks he may have impressed Gretzky and Co. this year with his hockey savvy. In choosing Sam Gagner, Phoenix would add a steady forward to their prospect pool, which features some risky/project picks such as Wheeler and Hanzal. However, Phoenix has made it known that they are looking for goal scorers, so JVR and Cherepanov are our guesses for now.

**Commentary:With the 4th overall selection of Karl Alzner in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Los Angeles gets Jack Johnson a smooth and reliable linemate to let him roam both offensively and defensively. LA just has so many options offensively to make them pass up on the draft's best defender: on the current NHL roster (Kopitar, Frolov, Cammalleri, Brown); in the minors (O'Sullivan, Tukonen, Lewis, Moulson); and in the system (Boyle, Cliche, Meckler). Beyond Jack Johnson and Joe Ryan, there is not much else for LA to look forward to in the future.

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Option # 2 - Jakub Voracek - Los Angeles could set themselves up with another top flight offensive prospect and take Voracek. This is a hard situation to try to decode, as they have a rich stable of talented forwards, with as many as four already proven. However, a forward may still be their on their list as BPA when pick number four rolls around.

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Option # 3 - Lars Eller - Going unconventional in 2005 and drafting a Slovenian playmaker was one of the best moves the King's franchise has made in quite some time. Could it be that LA strikes gold again in 2007 with a Danish playmaker?

**Commentary:With the 5th overall selection of Alexei Cherepanov in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Washington adds yet another bubbly Russian dynamo to their stable. Washington loves the fact that a team like Phoenix ignored Cherepanov’s huge smile and easygoing disposition at the combine, dispelling the rumors of any attitude problem. Leonsis should be beyond delighted that he is gearing up to have four of his top six forwards be Ovechkin, Semin, Backstrom, and Cherepanov. Washington could opt for a competent playmaking center to help Backstrom compliment Semin/Ovechkin on the wings.

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Option # 2 - Sam Gagner - As always, Gagner was in the mix when it was evident Washington will go the route of a smart center. Although we do have a preference for Dave Gagner's son, virtually any smart, playmaking centerman (Eller, Hamill, Couture) has a shot at going this early to Washington, if they so desire to split up their two electric wingers with savvy centermen.

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Option # 3 - Ryan McDonagh - McDonagh is looking like a sure bet to be one of the draft's biggest early surprises as both LA and now WSH are looking like they could use talented defenseman. It will come down to team's personal lists and preferences; if Alzner is off the board, Washington likes McDonagh, and rates him higher than a few forwards left on the board, then the Minnesota defender could be a good bet to go 5th overall.

**Commentary:With the 6th overall selection of Jakub Voracek in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Edmonton selects the best player overall who they could not let slip past them at number six. Having a plethora of smaller, shiftier forwards like Cogliano, Nilsson, Schremp, and Petterson, the Oilers welcome Voracek's package of size and playmaking ability to their system. Even though they are light on steady defense prospects, they also have two other first round picks to let them draft BPA this time around.

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Option # 2 - Nick Petrecki - The BC recruit is an outstanding darkhorse to be Edmonton's sixth overall selection. They have a few good mobile, offensive blueliners but could stand to add some grit and power on the blueline. The only roadblock we see in Petrecki's way, is the forward who falls out of the top five (if any) may be too good to pass up. Otherwise, Petrecki has the raw skills and athleticism to warrant this high selection. If Edmonton really likes Petrecki, we advise them to jump on him at number six as we think he will be long gone by the time their second pick at 15 rolls around.

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Option # 3 - Sam Gagner - Once again, Gagner seems like a backup option for the Oilers as well. Edmonton has a plethora of high ceiling forward prospects, but many of them are calculated risks and may not pan out. In selecting Gagner, the Oilers would add a safe prospect with definite top six skills and low bust potential.

**Commentary:With the 7th overall selection of Ryan McDonagh in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Columbus adds one of the draft's highest rising defensemen and someone who will easily be their number one defensive prospect. McDonagh may attract Columbus' attention due to his steady all around play. We think it will be in Columbus' best interest to draft a the best defenseman left on the board at this pick regardless of what forward falls. It will not take McDonagh long to transition to the pro game because of his size, high IQ, and complete game.

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Option # 2 - Kevin Shattenkirk- As a result of the parent club having some big boys on the backend who are not necessarily puck movers, we feel they could use a mobile blueliner to help dish the puck to talented forwards like Nash, Zherdev, Brule, and Brassard. Shattenkirk is an offensive defenseman who can definately fill this role and man the point on the PP as well.

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Option # 3 - Keaton Ellerby - Although DraftBuzz does not think Columbus has the right depth needed to a gamble on Ellerby's raw tools, it is certainly possible they are interested in the big Dub blueliner. He has to put it all together, but the Blue Jackets could end up with a 6'4'', mobile, physical, defenseman with good hands.

**Commentary:With the 8th overall selection of Sam Gagner in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Bruins cannot afford to pass on the draft's best package of smarts and skills. Gagner is a great value pick at this eighth spot, as DraftBuzz believes that Gagner has a good chance of coming out of this draft as one of the top two players from this draft. Gagner is the BPA at this point, and Boston gets a legitimate top line forward in their system with his selection.

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Option # 2 - Keaton Ellerby - Because Boston has a few blueline prospects proving themselves in the minors in Stuart, Lashoff, and Sigalet, they may have the time needed to let a raw blueliner like Ellerby develop and find his toolbox. The Bruin's do not have a defense prospect quite like Ellerby, who combines size, skill, and brawn and could be a likely destination for him on draft day.

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Option # 3 - Max Pacioretty - Loaded with young, talented, fairly small centermen, the Bruins may look to add a high octane winger with size. Pacioretty could be a potential shock pick at this eighth draft position, due to Boston lacking a big power winger with skill. However, should one of the top forwards fall (like Gagner in our version) we cannot see them passing one of them up for Pacioretty.

**Commentary:With the 9th overall selection of Jonathan Blum in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Blues add yet another high end rearguard with a complete skillset. After Johnson, St. Louis' defense prospect pool thins out quickly and lacks quality blueliners especially with the loss of Jackson. Offensively, St. Louis has four solid forwards on the NHL roster (Boyes, Stempniak, Backes, and McClement) and a few top end forward prospects coming (Oshie, Berglund, Soderberg). As a result, we think STL will be more inclined to add some defensive depth and Blum is a great option here at nine.

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Option # 2 - Lars Eller – Depending on what St. Louis’ strategy is with owning three top 30 draftpicks, we can just easily see Eller going here at nine. He would give St. Louis great prospect depth down the middle, and offer some options (IE. flanking Soderberg). In forecasting the rest of the picks in the first round, St. Louis may be best served snagging one of the better blueliners at this pick and adding offensive depth with their next two as the quality of the draft’s forward prospects look to be a bit better in the 20-30’s.

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Option # 3 - Billy Sweatt - Although the Blues offensive depth is very good, we can just as easily see them passing over Blum to nab a player like Sweatt. He would instantly be one of their safest prospects and offer the best combination of size, speed, and grit amongst their forwards. He fits the hardworking type of players they have been adding through trades and drafting, so he is a very good possibility to go to Missouri.

**Commentary:With the 10th overall selection of Nick Petrecki in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Panthers add a great defense prospect, which they have been starving for greatly. They just brought in Noah Welch through a deadline deal in which they gave up veteran Roberts, which was a much needed addition. However, after Bouwmeester and Welch, Lapoint is the only defender in the system worth hanging some hopes on. By drafting Petrecki, they get a player who many say has the body and skating ability to play in the NHL right now if Florida so desires him immediately.

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Option # 2 - Keaton Ellerby - Selecting Petrecki over Ellerby was a hard decision as we can see how not much might separate the two. But in the end, Florida has their proven Ellerby in Bouwmeester and Petrecki offers rare athleticism and nastiness that gives him a slight edge.

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Option # 3 - Max Pacioretty - Pacioretty would be a solid addition to Florida's stable of forward prospects. He's got great long limbs, superb hands, and playmaking ability. He would add another offensive punch to an already strong one with Frolik, McArdle, and Stewart.

**Commentary:With the 11th overall selection of Logan Couture in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Carolina Hurricanes introduce a steady and talented offensive forward, which they desparately lack. Make no mistake, Carolina's pipeline is very dry aside from good goaltending depth and decent defensive depth. Couture instantly becomes the Hurricane's best prospect, and provides them with a solid centerman who can score just as well as he can playmake with his above average vision and passing.

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Option # 2 - Zach Hamill - Had DraftBuzz not heard of Carolina's interest in Couture, Hamill would have definately been our choice. What makes Hamill a good fit for Carolina, is he is eligible to play in the minors as early as this coming season because he has played four years of junior hockey already. We think that factor could be tremendous for a team with a prospect pool as depleted as their's. The skills between Hamill and couture are pretty much the same, with Hamill being just a hair safer of a prospect.

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Option # 3 - Lars Eller - From now on, Eller would be a tremendous pick for any team. It just so happens that Carolina is looking for a top end forward. Their stated liking for Couture could be a smokescreen, however, so they can fly under the radar and snatch up this steady, playmaking Dane.

**One wrench that could be thrown into these forward plans goes by the name of Keaton Ellerby. If Carolina did not expect Ellerby to fall to their pick, we can see him being picked up quickly as well, as Carolina lacks a comparable, elite defense prospect.**

**Commentary:With the 12th overall selection of Lars Eller in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Montreal Canadiens add yet another high end forward prospect to their near full stable. Upon inspection of their future forwards, it became evident that Montreal needed a top six centerman who can play with their tremendously skilled wingers. Lars Eller fits the bill, and gives the Canadiens a formidable trio down the middle with Eller, Chipchura, and White.

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Option # 2 - Zach Hamill - Hamill's a smart top six forward who would fit well in Montreal's system. They have many eccentric European forwards, and we think they could use a reliable North American center like Zach Hamill who flashes just as much skill as he does intelligence.

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Option # 3 - Angelo Esposito - Yea, Yea, he's the hometown kid and all. But we do not think that plays as much as a role in Montreal's interest as his skating ability and electric offensive skills. He is definately a project, but a team like Montreal may have the resources to host his development. They have had recent success with draft picks stepping into the lineup and producing, along with those in the minors banging down the door. For this reason, we can see them taking the chance on this enigmatic talent.

**Commentary:With the 13th overall selection of Keaton Ellerby in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Toronto Maple Leafs select the best player available and add a huge, dynamic blueliner to their stable. The Leafs take the route of the Kamloops defenseman as a result of having a solid young forward core trio of Stajan, Steen, and Wellwood with Tlusty, Earl, and Kulemin arriving in the not so distant future. They are pleasantly surprised with Stralman's unexpected development, but the rest of their defense prospects project as stay at home bottom pairing rearguards. Ellerby gives Toronto a top flight defenseman with all the tools to hopefully mold into a strapping, 6'4'' rover who can shoot, pass, hit, and defend.

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Option # 2 - Thomas Hickey - Loaded up front and having quite a few big blueliners, Colorado would add a puckmover and steady defender that is not in their system. Hickey is a great option at this fourteen spot, as Toronto desperately lacks a defender with Hickey's speed, hands, and smarts.

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Option # 3 - Colton Gillies – Who couldn’t use a 6’4’’ gazelle who skates like the wind and hits hard? Even if his offense does not come around, Gillies would add a missing dimension to Toronto’s prospect pool at forward. They do not have that one prospect who can hit and match speed to neutralize top lines; Gillies has the size, speed, and hustle to be that player.

**Commentary:With the 14th overall selection of Mark Katic in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Colorado Avalanche add a much needed puckmover with blazing speed to their system. There are rumblings that Colorado has been looking heavily at Katic at this 14th pick; DraftBuzz would have guessed Shattenkirk instead. But Katic is a very intriguing player for his speed and possible offensive ability. With concerns about his own zone play present throughout the first half of the season, he showed us a calm and reliable game towards the end of the season impressing many with his great plus/minus at the WJC U18.

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Option # 2 - Kevin Shattenkirk – The team USA captain is a natural offensive defenseman and would gel terrifically with Colorado’s skilled forwards. Colorado has enough depth at forward to think D at this pick. Additionally, the players left on board at this 14th pick will most likely be comparably even (forward or defenseman) adding more incentive for the Avalanche to boost their backline.

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Option # 3 - Mikael Backlund – Backlund is a guy who could surprise and go to Denver here. Colorado’s pipeline lacks its touch of European skill, and Backlund is a steady prospect to add to a system that features some relative risks at forward. We see him having a similar development curve to Michael Frolik, who has proven his early 2006 draft selection with a solid year in the Q.

2007 Draft Selection #1 (6th Overall) : Jakub Voracek - Right Wing *Commentary:With the 15th overall selection of Kevin Shattenkirk in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Edmonton Oilers begin to accomplish what they set out to do this draft: add quality defenders with three first round picks at their disposal. Nine picks earlier, Edmonton vaulted their offensive forward depth over the top with the addition of the strapping winger from the Q. With this pick, Edmonton adds a great skating defenseman who navigates the offensive zone well, can skate, and is a decent defender. He is a great option to lead future rushes with their myriad of skilled forwards.

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Option # 2 -Kevin Marshall – Shattenkirk’s combination of skating and skill were too tempting to pass over at this pick. However, if EDM was able to resist the urge we see them going a different route in a defender like Marshall who is a steadier, more physical, defense first type of defenseman. They have some good puckmovers in Grebeshkov, Chorney, and Gilbert, but lack that presence on the blueline who has the smarts and the will to stop plays in his own zone. That said, 15 may be pushing it a bit for the at all costs defenseman from Lewiston.

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Option # 3 - Tommy Cross – Cross is a guy who could add size and a steady overall game to the Oiler’s defense corps. Hickey would have been a natural choice instead, but Chorney is a very similar player. As a result, Tommy Cross offers the potential to be one of the drafts first few surprise selections here at Edmonton’s 15th overall.

Commentary:With the 16th overall selection of Zach Hamill in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Anaheim Ducks select a multi-talented centerman with passing skills to compliment their bigger, more powerful wingers in Penner, Perry, Ryan, and Swan. Even with Anaheim's recent success with young forwards, they must draft BPA (which looks to unanimously be a forward) as a result of surrendering their 2nd round selection to Vancouver.

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Option # 2 -Mikael Backlund - Same scenario as Hamill, it just boils down to preference. Backlund is a little less dynamic, but a hair more athletic than Everett's veteran center. However, Backlund's rocky season makes us think that Hamill is chosen instead.

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Option # 3 - Billy Sweatt -Anaheim has a forward group that does not feature some of the better skating prospects. Sweatt would give them a winger who can go coast to coast effortlessly and play a gritty NA game. Sweatt's a nice option for the Cup champions with his X factor of speed.

Commentary:With the 17th overall selection of Mikael Backlund in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the New York Rangers snap up the one of the draft's greatest fallers from previous years rankings. Desiring a top end forward to build around, the Rangers hope Backlund regains some of his offensive confidence and skating he lost when he injured his knee. His great hands, skating, and cerebral approach to the game are indicative of the new age True Blue player.**

Option # 2 - Max Pacioretty - A very hard choice to decipher, the Rangers could have easily gone any one of Backlund, Pacioretty, or Esposito in our estimation. What is clear is they need to get a guy who can lead the offense once Jagr and company move on. Pacioretty would be our choice for his hands and size, but for some reason we expect Swedish scout Christer Rockstrom to beat the drum for the Scandinavian athlete.

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Option # 3 - Angelo Esposito -A few years ago, it was rumored that the Rangers wanted to take a chance on the enigmatic Robbie Schremp, but ultimately passed because they did not feel their system could absorb his personality and potential busting. Well it has been a couple of years and now their system can take this type of gamble and Angelo Esposito fits that description to a tee. Do not be surprised if Angelo and his fantastic hair are New York City bound on June 22nd.

Commentary:With the 18th overall selection of Max Pacioretty in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Calgary Flamesadd a huge winger with great skill to their system. The Flames have had success introducing Dustin Boyd and Andrei Taratukhin to professional hockey, but are still a little light in terms of impact forwards with Ryder, Puustinen, and Chucko still developing. Pacioretty is a steal here at 18, and offers them a playmaker with the body, hands, and skating to consistently make a difference. They do need some more skilled defensive depth and should look to bolster their defensive prospect pool in the later rounds (Calgary does not have another pick until the fifth round).**

Option # 2 - Simon Hjalmarsson - The Swedish sniper was neck and neck with Pacioretty for this pick. Hjalmarrson offers a little more scoring ability and edge to Pacioretty's playmaking and slow type of offensive processing. Calgary at 18 seems to be one of Hjalmarsson's best tickets to going in the top 20.

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Option # 3 -David Perron - We see the Flames looking for a dynamite forward to create offense, and for that reason they may be willing to take a chance on the draft's rising questionmark. There is a lot to project with Perron, but he has unreal stickhandling and hand eye coordination. He is gritty and looks to be coachable in other areas of the ice, making him a more attractive pick as we ascend in the draft.

Commentary:With the 19th overall selection of Thomas Hickey in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Minnesota Wild fill an imperative need (especially with the failure of Thelen) and choose a two way defenseman with many translatable skills. Minnesota is ecstatic the Dub version of Ballard falls to them at this pick. Hickey can play a run and gun style of hockey, or he can just as well sit back and prevent scoring chances. He has soft hands, hits, and skates very well. **

Option # 2 - Tommy Cross - With a bevy of talented forwards from previous drafts, Minnesota has set themselves up to focus exclusively on replenishing their backline. It would be in their best interest to draft a safer defenseman with this high pick. Cross is a reliable, steady defender who showed us constant showings so far in his HS career.

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Option # 3 -Nick Ross - Looking through the rest of the defenders left on board, Ross could catch Minnesota's interest with a good skillset overall. Ross has good hands, is a good skater, and throws nice checks. He is a steady defender who lacks any real exciting trait, except for some heavy hits, and should be on their radar for his solid, but unspectacular play.

Commentary:With the 20th overall selection of Billy Sweatt in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Pittsburgh Penguins are confronted with an awesome dilemma of having to sift through quite a few guys who they think should not have slipped this far. Pittsburgh settles on the speedster to take advantage of opposing defenses who tire from having to fend off with Crosby, Malkin, and Staal. At this juncture , it is alright to gamble on Sweatt's offensive game because at the very least he will be a fast checker with size and grit.**

Option # 2 - Maxim Mayorov -If the Penguins wanted more of a European splash of skill, Mayorov is still left on the board to snag. Maybe they are intrigued with setting Mayorov up with Malkin and letting him learn the NA game with his guidance. Regardless, just like Sweatt, this Russian is a speedster himself who gives defensemen fits with his powerful physique, skating, and offensive zone activity.

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Option # 3 - Oscar Moller -Moller would be a great option to throw a smart goal scorer into a prospect pool that lacks real options as a result of impressive, early graduations. It is this general area that Moller should begin to garner heavy attention, and it would not be a surprise to see the Penguins dive into Chilliwack and catch this Swedish fish.

Commentary:With the 21st overall selection of Simon Hjalmarsson in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Phoenix takes the best player available who coincidentally is one of the best goal scorers in the draft. Fredrik Sjostrom's ever so slow development does not scare them away from this Swede, as they like his competitiveness, selection of shots, and ability to change momentum with a quick flick of the wrist.**

Option # 2 - Brett MacLean - Had Hjalmarsson not been on the board, the big winger from the O would have been the choice instead. There is not much separating the two production wise (both gave us what we expected and wanted to see from a top prospect), but there is a marked difference in skating. Because of this, Hjalmarsson gets a slight edge over the laboring North American lamp lighter.

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Option # 3 -Maxim Mayorov - With JVR already in the bag, does Phoenix get risky and throw Mayorov in the mix? It's even debateable that Hjalmarsson is the BPA, so Mayorov could be a great possibility here at 21. He is the type of prospect who makes you wish you had multiple picks to gamble on. Because of that, Phoenix could be a likely destination.

**Commentary:With the 22nd overall selection of Angelo Esposito in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Montreal Canadiens are the team to finally take a shot on Quebec's project. Montreal has a ton of offensive forwards on the way and already showing success at the NHL level, so they can afford to shoot for the stars with this selection. Esposito needs alot of his talents to come together, but he is the best option at this pick.

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Option # 2 - Colton Gillies - Aside from Chipchura and possibly White, the Canadiens do not have much on the way as far as physical play from their forwards is concerned. Gillies could be their seek and destroy missile down the middle, providing a different type of punch from their future forwards.

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Option # 3 - Juraj Valach - Shattenkirk would be ideal at this 22nd overall spot, but since he is taken Valach is the next best option for a puck possessing, offensive oriented defenseman. He is great with the puck on his stick and would really add a defender with hands, skating, and shooting that Montreal lacks.

2007 Draft Selection #1 (2nd Overall) : Kyle Turris - Center**Commentary:With the 23rd overall selection of David Perron in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Philadephia spices up their forward selection of prospects with the dazzling stickhandler from the Q. Perron gives the Flyer's a winger who can do a little bit of everything, but most importantly create offense from scratch. He's the yang to Turris' yin, as he is a bit more outspoken than the Express center and a bit more colorful. Perron is a little more projection and offers less certainty than alot of other players, but having multiple first round picks makes Philadelphia a bit more riskier and willing to gamble on the late blooming puck wizard.

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Option # 2 - Jeremy Smith - Having quite a few third rounders at their disposal may make Philadelphia a bit hesitant to select a goalie this early in the game, but if they really likeSmith they may jump on him at this pick (the consensus number one draft eligible goalie). They lack a true goaltending prospect to really count on. Whether it is Smith, Patterson, Mucha, or Gistedt, any tender for that matter, we can see Philadelphia just as easily seizing one at 23 or waiting until the third.

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Option # 3 - Maxim Mayorov - Mayorov put up a great fight for this selection against Perron with his speed and athletic physique, but ultimately lost out due to a noticeable difference in offensive ability, creativity, and "carrying" of the play blueline in. He is a viable option, though, for the Flyer's to introduce some classic Russian skill and skating to their system.

**Commentary:With the 24th overall selection of Maxim Mayorov in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Blues take the best talent left on the board and add some natural depth on the wing. Already having selected Jon Blum with the ninth overall, snagging Mayorov this late in the game is bound to make many STL fans happy. He is a definite risk, but STL has another first round pick and the 39th overall to afford them some room to play.

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Option # 2 - Oscar Moller - Moller would be another great winger for STL to take with this pick. We could also see them packaging the 24th and 26th pick to move up in the draft and secure a player they really like at the top half of the draft. Regardless, STL will have great flexibility to stand pat, or make some trades, take high risk/high reward players, and add great depth to their prospect pool.

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Option # 3 - Brandon Sutter - Sutter is a guy a team with multiple picks like STL should definately keep an eye on. He needs alot of ingredients to come together, mainly strength and offensive confidence, and frankly needs to distinguish himself without borrowing equity off of the Sutter name. But at this point in the draft, his hands and size should start to garner interest in this range.

**Commentary:With the 25th overall selection of Logan MacMillan in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Vancouver Canucks choose one of the more safer forwards left in the draft. Vancouver desperately needs an infusion of quality forward prospects and focus on getting a player who at the very least, while he may not have as high a ceiling as others, will be a great defensive center who can chip in a few goals. MacMillan could actually be quite a darkhorse offensively if his hands and passing improve.

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Option # 2 - Brandon Sutter - Sutter may be here as a best player available type of pick and they might be surprised if he falls. Vancouver could use a smart, slick centerman like Sutter but it remains to be seen whether they can take the chance on the Red Deer forward, who is very raw in some facets of the game and is a great projection.

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Option # 3 - Michal Repik - After playing for Vancouver in the WHL, it is a certainty that the Canucks have seen the Czech import tear up the Memorial Cup. Because of that impressive stretch, Repik has played himself up to a possible selection here by the hometown NHL club. Already having a speedy, offensively gifted winger in Grabner will not deter the offense starved Canucks from thinking about Repik here.

**Commentary:With the 26th overall selection of Stefan Legein in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Blues add a small, spicy right winger to a system with a lot of European flavor. Legein will offer STL a great complimentary player who can hang offensively with guys like Oshie, Soderberg, and Berglund while providing some nice grit. At the previous pick, Legein was not mentioned as an option but after further analyzing the Blues forward depth, we think they can use a guy like Legein.

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Option # 2 - Oscar Moller - Moller would be another great winger for STL to take with this pick. We could also see them packaging the 24th and 26th pick to move up in the draft and secure a player they really like at the top half of the draft. Regardless, STL will have great flexibility to stand pat, or make some trades, take high risk/high reward players, and add great depth to their prospect pool.

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Option # 3 - Brandon Sutter - Sutter is a guy a team with multiple picks like STL should definately keep an eye on. He needs alot of ingredients to come together, mainly strength and offensive confidence, and frankly needs to distinguish himself without borrowing equity off of the Sutter name. But at this point in the draft, his hands and size should start to garner interest in this range.

**Commentary:With the 27th overall selection of Oscar Moller in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Red Wings get to announce only their third first round pick since 2000. With this choice, they select a "Swede" shot, and a winger who has the potential to be a typical Red Wing sleeper (someone who emerges post draft and shows his worth to be more than his draft spot). Moller has a great stocky build and loves to shoot.

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Option # 2 - Colton Gillies -Lacking true power forwards, Detroit could really use a hulking centerman like Gillies. He has some definate skills that are top 10 worthy like his size, skating, and physicality, so Detroit may love the fact that he falls to them this late in the first round.

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Option # 3 -Patrick White - The Red Wings may go the less celebrated route of USHSW and pick up a sharp shooting center from Grand Rapids HS. White played real well during a brief stint in the USHL, scoring 8 goals in 12 games. He has a lot of maturing to do at Minnesota, but a team like Detroit may be enticed by his great developmental curve.

**Commentary:With the 28th overall selection of Colton Gillies in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Washington Capitals have the luxury to draft the imposing project from Saskatoon. He should be relied upon as a physical third line center who can step up offensively at times, but should not be expected to be the lynchpin on a line with Ovechkin or Semin. He has great physical tools and skating, and will give the Capitals another scary forward to throw at defenses.

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Option # 2 -Riley Nash - Washington likes those project picks and players who flash a lot of potential but have a long road to the NHL. For that reason, Riley Nash could be a great option to get another playmaking, great passing centerman in their system. He has a great frame, slick hands, and may be underrated playing BCHL hockey this past year.

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Option # 3 -Dana Tyrell - Just like drafting Boyd Gordon in 2003, the Capitals may take a chance on a similar hardworking Dub forward in the Prince George winger. Though, to his defense, Tyrell has much more dynamic skating and puck skills. In Nash and Tyrell, Washington will hope at least one of these guys falls to their next pick at 34 after going with Gillies.

Commentary:With the 29th overall selection of Michal Repik in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Ottawa Senators pick a speedy threat to add some offensive skill and prospect depth on the wing. Ottawa is light on the wings, especially right wing, and can really use a player who offers the skills that Repik does. He had a great end to the season and played himself into this range that was previously held by other, more consistent forwards.

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Option # 2 -Brett MacLean - The big winger from Oshawa could potentially strike the interest of Ottawa as he has great goal scorer's instincts. Along with other hard nosed prospects like Foligno, MacLean could be a nice change up to the usual small, but more skilled forwards Ottawa routinely drafts.

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Option # 3 -Kevin Marshall - Turning out underrated defensemen like Volchenkov and Meszaros, Ottawa is the one team who we think will catch on to Marshall and his pro style game. As a result, Marshall could be a great option for Ottawa at this 29th overall selection.

*Commentary:With the 30th overall selection of Kevin Marshall in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Edmonton Oilers barely have enough wind in them to announce the pick after having made two marvelous selections already. With the last selection, the Oilers secured a legitimate puck moving, offensive defenseman with decent size. With this last pick in the first round, the Oilers get a gritty defenseman who will do anything to win and looks to make a great compliment to a guy like Shattenkirk. **

Option # 2 -Tommy Cross - Cross is a guy who could add size and a steady overall game to the Oiler’s defense corps. As a result, he offers the potential to go in the late first/early second round range with the Oiler's owning the 30th and 36th picks.

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Option # 3 -Ruslan Bashkirov - For all their great prospect depth down the middle, the Oiler's lack some talent on the wings. Voracek is more of a passer, so Bashkirov would give the Oiler's a great option to have a talented winger who is not afraid to shoot.